Springtime in Barolo Wine Dinner with G.D. Vajra

Join us at Boston’s award-winning Standard Italian, the next-door sibling of Eastern Standard, as we welcome the legendary Piedmontese estate G.D. Vajra for a wine dinner celebrating Nebbiolo—the noble grape of Barolo. Vajra has long been one of Gordon’s favorite family-owned producers, admired for both their approachable entry-level wines of the Langhe and their exceptional Barolo crus.

This festive wine dinner will be hosted by Kevin Natoli of G.D. Vajra, alongside importer Vineyard Road and Chelsea Bell of Gordon's Wine, who will guide guests through the wines, vineyards, and traditions of Piedmont.

The evening will explore the many expressions of Nebbiolo, beginning with a vibrant sparkling rosé, followed by a tasting of the Clare JC—a light, aromatic Nebbiolo inspired by a historic 1606 recipe—alongside Vajra’s classic Langhe Nebbiolo. Guests will then experience a rare side-by-side tasting of the estate’s celebrated Barolo crus from the newly released 2022 vintage: Coste di Rose and Bricco delle Viole from G.D. Vajra, and Luigi Baudana’s Baudana and Cerretta.

The Baudana property, acquired in 2008 by Giuseppe, Francesca, and Isidoro Vajra—continues to be run as a distinct domaine. Its celebrated vineyards—Baudana and Cerretta—together with Vajra’s Coste di Rose and Bricco delle Viole, offer four singular expressions of Barolo, providing a remarkable window into the nuance, structure, and terroir of Nebbiolo.

We will conclude with Vajra’s Barolo Chinato, the historic aromatized wine of Piedmont. Born in the late 19th century, Barolo Chinato gained renown for its enchanting balance of bitter and sweet botanicals. Long cherished in Italy as both a restorative tonic and a gracious gesture of hospitality, it remains a traditional way to close a meal.

Chef Brian Rae curates a multi-course menu inspired by the flavors of Northern Italy, and highlighting the freshness of spring ingredients to complement each wine.

Gather your friends and famiglia for an unforgettable evening of conviviality, passion, and captivating flavors—celebrating Nebbiolo and the timeless traditions of Piedmont.

Full pairing menu will be released shortly!

About Kevin Natoli:

Kevin Natoli is the North American Sales Director for G.D. Vajra and Luigi Baudana. A proud New York native, Kevin began his career in family-owned and operated restaurants, culminating at the renowned SoHo, NYC institution Aquagrill. 

He later transitioned from restaurant management to wine sales, joining Martin Scott Wines as a sales representative in New York City. It was there that he connected with Giuseppe Vaira, a relationship that would become the foundation for his work with the Vaira family.

Since June 2016, Kevin has played an integral role in explaining their presence across forty-nine U.S. states, nine Canadian provinces, as well as Puerto Rico, The Bahamas and Aruba. The company continues to grow, with further expansion on the horizon.

Kevin travels to Barolo throughout the year, spending valuable time in the vineyards and cellar, deepening his knowledge and further strengthening his connection to the region of Barolo. 

Menu:

Aperitivo
NV Vajra VSQ Rosé N.S. della Neve

Antipasti
paired with 2025 Vajra Clare JC Langhe Nebbiolo and 2024 Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo

Primo
paired with 2022 Vajra Barolo Coste di Rose and 2022 Vajra Barolo Bricco delle Viole

Secondo 
paired with 2022 Vajra Baudana Barolo Baudana and 2022 Vajra Baudana Barolo Cerretta

Dolce
paired with NV Vajra Barolo Chinato 

Ticket Price: $185 (inclusive of reception, 4-course meal, featured wines, tax and gratuity)

Wine vintages and food ingredients may be subject to change due to availability and seasonality.

Please alert us of any allergies or dietary restrictions at least 72 hours before the event.

Tickets cannot be refunded within 72 hours of the event.

Guests will be seated communally at long tables according to party reservations. If any members of your group booked separately, kindly inform us and we will ensure you're seated together.

EVENT QUESTIONS? PLEASE EMAIL CHELSEA@GORDONSWINE.COM